4 suspects in Cebu mall heist slain

MANILA, Philippines — Four robbery suspects were killed while four others were arrested three hours after they broke into a mall in Mandaue City, Cebu on Saturday night.

The fatalities, identified as Kevin Andales, Wilfredo Enguito, Philip Taborada and Glen Tairos, reportedly resisted arrest by pursuing police officers who cornered them at the Pulambato Wharf in Bogo City.

The suspects allegedly grabbed the firearms of the officers as they were being taken to the police station, according to Maj. Emelie Santos, chief of the Bogo City police.

Those arrested were identified as Roel Sumingit, 35; Jun Candelaria, 38; Julivy Quirante, 43, and Arnel Cimafranca, 38.

Police recovered from the suspects a Toyota Innova (ZRM 486), three motorcycles, phones, a handgun, assorted clothing, chisels, glass cutters and undetermined amount of cash.

Police have launched a manhunt for the remaning suspects, who were among 15 men who robbed several jewelry stores and a money changer shop at the J Centre Mall in Mandaue City at around 8 p.m.

The suspects reportedly beat up one of the mall guards, who was taken to a hospital for treatment.

The suspects, allegedly members of the Ozamiz robbery group, took at least P116 million worth of jewelry and cash.